Preparing for Colder Weather: Tips from The Boulevard Wentzville Plant Operations Director

As the Plant Operations Director at The Boulevard Senior Living – Wentzville. I know the importance of preparing the community and my home for the cold winter weather. To prepare your house for winter weather, start by inspecting and sealing any gaps or cracks in doors, windows, and walls to prevent drafts and conserve heat. Be sure to clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage. Thus preventing ice dams that can damage your roof and walls when snow and ice accumulate. 

Check your heating system and replace air filters. Consider scheduling a professional inspection to ensure it functions efficiently and safely for the colder months. Insulate your home correctly by adding weatherstripping to doors and windows. Add insulation to your attic and walls to retain heat and lower energy bills. Remember also to prepare your outdoor spaces. Drain and store garden hoses, cover outdoor furniture, and trim tree branches that could damage your home during winter storms. 

To prepare for the community’s winter season. I start with disconnecting and storing all water hoses outside and winterizing the outdoor fountains. Shutting the water off to the outside spigots can help prevent the pipes from freezing and eliminate the chance for the pipes to burst, causing costly repairs in the spring. This ensures everything will be ready for next spring. While I’m outside, I also put all outdoor cushions and umbrellas away for the season. 

It is also an excellent time to turn the heater on and ensure it works before the temperatures drop. This gives some time to have maintenance done before the need arises. While you are at the HVAC system, changing the filter will ensure the system can breathe properly and perform at its best.

Preparation is critical to ensuring your comfort during the colder months. It also ensures your equipment will be ready for spring when needed again. Prepping for the winter will save time and money in the spring.

A little time and money spent preparing for cold weather will pay off great dividends through energy savings. There is no way to stop “Old Man Winter” from arriving at your door, but with some preparation, he’ll stay outside where he belongs!